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Heart Disease: Prevention Myths

Topic Overview

There are lots of things you can do to lower your risk for
coronary artery disease. Good habits, such as eating
right, getting regular exercise, and not smoking, all work for most people. But
many of the things you may hear about really don't work.
These include:

Hormone therapy. Doctors used to think that hormone therapy could lower your risk of getting heart disease. But hormone therapy does not prevent heart disease. So experts no longer recommend this use of hormone therapy.1

Low-carbohydrate diets. These diets could cause serious
medical problems, especially if you have heart disease,
type 2 diabetes,
high cholesterol, or
high blood pressure. The
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Heart Association do
not recommend these diets.

High-protein diets. These diets limit healthy foods such as
fruits and vegetables. And they don't include essential vitamins, minerals, and
fiber. The American Heart Association does not recommend
high-protein diets.

Vitamin B supplements.
Vitamin B and
folic acid supplements do not
lower the risk of heart disease or stroke. Most
doctors recommend that you get B vitamins from a balanced diet.

Vitamin E supplements. Vitamin E does not lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke. The American Heart Association does not recommend taking
vitamin E to reduce your risk. Instead, eat a balanced diet that includes
fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts.

You can read more about
guidelines for heart-healthy eating that include foods
that do lower your risk. Or you can follow tips for starting and staying with a
hearty-healthy eating plan in:

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.